Effects of Gelatin on Performance of α-tricalcium Phosphate Bone Cement

Objective To determine the effects of gelatin on the performance of calcium phosphate cement (CPC). Methods α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) bone cement was mixed with different concentrations of gelatin solutions. The CPC samples were soaked into simulated body fluid for one day before their compressive and bending strengths were measured. We also compared their waterproof performance, solidification time and surface topography. Results gelatin solutions changed the performance of CPC. Optimal performance of CPC was achieved when the volume ratio of _{gelatin solution} to CPC (V_{gelatin solution}∶V_{CPC liquid}) was set at 25∶100,which increased compressive strength from (7.874 54±0.660 97) MPa to (9.936 52±0.433 17) MPa and bending strength from (5.157 06±0.298 30) MPa to (7.959 71±0.281 63) MPa. _{gelatin solution} also prolonged setting time of CPC, improved its waterproof performance, and promoted formulation of more dense and uniform hydroxyapatite crystals. Conclusion Gelatin can improve the compressive and bending strengths of CPC, and make CPC more suitable for clinic use through improvements in setting time and waterproof performance.